Coast Guard continues offshore pipeline response

PORT ARTHUR – Coast Guard MSU Port Arthur, Texas General Land Office, and The O’Brien’s Group continue to respond to an offshore crude oil pipeline release approximately four miles offshore of McFaddin Beach, Texas. Two oil spill response boats remain on scene.

Shoreline assessment teams today observed a light sheen on shore approximately 2.5 miles west of the Sabine Pass Jetties and east of Sea Rim State Park. The light sheening is not recoverable, and is expected to dissipate naturally.

The pipeline is leaking from two locations, with a minimal discharge rate. As of 4 p.m. today, the total estimate for the oil discharge remains at approximately 2,000 gallons. A team of divers are on scene and are scheduled to begin work repairing the pipeline this afternoon or tonight.

A safety zone that was put in place yesterday has been expanded to include dive operations. Vessels traveling near this area are cautioned to keep a safe distance from the response site to ensure the safety of their vessel and the waterway.